Katoen Natie automates labelling with Zetes’ Print & Apply solution

Reduced errors and increased productivity in packaging and order preparation processes

Katoen Natie’s logistical centre in Azuqueca de Henares (Spain) is dedicated to an audiovisual company, which sends thousands of DVDs every day. The company, therefore, needed a labelling system that is able to cope with the high production turnover of the centre. Katoen Natie chose a labelling and dispatch control system based on an automatic labelling solution (Print & Apply) developed by Zetes.

Efficient labelling and robust quality control

Zetes developed a tailor-made solution that met three basic requirements of Katoen Natie: the printing and application of labels showing the price of each DVD on an automated packing line; the application, on these same DVDs, of the pre-printed labels (also on an automated packaging line) and finally, the subsequent quality control of each product to ensure the compliance of the labelling. The solution set up uses ZPA 1400 real-time printer-applicators. This type of machine makes it possible to print and apply labels onto the upper surface of DVDs as they move along a conveyor belt.

Custom-built applications for maximum flexibility

From a software standpoint, Zetes developed a modular application allowing for the efficient control of various labelling lines and a systematic control of the information printed on the labels. Zetes also provided a made-to-measure application to ensure that all items and packages are correctly labelled. The two applications were then seamlessly integrated with the company’s internal management system.